GB2569968A

GB2569968A - Improvements in or relating to locks and lockers

Info

Publication number: GB2569968A
Application number: GB1800116.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Mark Hinson Jacob; Hinson Mark
Original assignee: Uk Locker Ltd
Current assignee: Uk Locker Ltd
Priority date: 2018-01-04
Filing date: 2018-01-04
Publication date: 2019-07-10
Anticipated expiration: 2038-01-04
Also published as: GB2569968B; WO2019135080A1; GB201800116D0

Abstract

A user 1 is provided with a key 10 and seeks allocation of one of a plurality of lockers 2, each locker 2 being fitted with an electronic lock 3. A terminal 4 is operable to identify unallocated lockers 2 and allocate one such locker 2 to the user 1. The allocated locker 2 has a lock 3 with a unique lock identification code and an associated sequence number. The terminal 4 is operable to write the lock identity code to the key 10, increment the sequence number and write the incremented sequence number to the key 10. Subsequently, the user 1 can present the key 10 to the lock 3 of the allocated locker 2. The lock 3 is operable to read the lock identity code and the sequence number. If the lock identity code matches a stored lock identity code and the sequence number is equal to or greater than a stored sequence number, the lock 3 will open allowing the user to access the locker. Additionally, the latest accepted sequence number is stored by the lock 3. A master key with a master key and a master sequence number may be provided.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATING TO LOCKS AND LOCKERS

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to locks and lockers. In particular, the present invention relates to electronic locks and to lockers incorporating such locks.

Additionally, the present invention relates to method of operation and key allocation for such locks and lockers.

Background to the Invention

It is common to provide accessible lockers for storage of private items where many individuals use a common area. Examples of such locations include changing rooms or common rooms in workplaces, educational facilities or leisure facilities.

Traditionally, such systems relied on users providing their own lock (e.g. a padlock) or by providing keys for each locker which can be acquired and retained by the user of the locker.

More recently, there has been a move to substitute mechanical locks operable in response to actuation by a suitable mechanical key by electronic locks. Such electronic locks contain a reader operable to read a code or token from a presented key, such as a key card. The electronic lock further comprises a processing unit operable in response to presentation of the correct code or token to control operation of the lock. In this context, electronic locks have the advantage that the appropriate code or token can be time limited or can be reprogrammed for each new user. Such reprogramming can prevent an unscrupulous user gaining ongoing access to a locker.

Whilst reprogramming locks does increase security, it can increase the complexity of the system overall. In particular, each lock needs to be connected to a control module so that the new code or token can be written to the lock and stored by control module for writing to a keycard upon allocation. As such, the system is required maintain a record of the locker (and hence lock) associated with each said code or token. Where such codes or tokens are allocated to particular users, the system may be additionally required to maintain a record of the user identity associated with each allocated locker (and hence lock). Whilst this enables an administrator to facilitate locker access to the associated user if they lose or damage their key card, the sum total of such activity adds a significant administrative burden to locker allocation.

As electronic locks become more common, users may often need to carry more than one key or key card. In some cases, this is in addition to identity cards required for site access. This can cause user confusion as to the correct card to use or even discard after expiry. It can also be burdensome for the user to carry multiple key cards.

In some instances, this might be addressed by providing a key card combining multiple functions. This can however add new problems such as increased cost and complexity and greater security risks should the card be lost.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a new method of locker allocation and associated locks, lockers and control systems that at least partly overcome or alleviate the above issues.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of programming a key for a lock, the method comprising the steps of looking up a unique lock identification code for the selected lock; looking up a sequence number for the selected lock; incrementing the sequence number; and writing the lock identification code and the incremented sequence number to the key.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of operating a lock, the method comprising the steps of reading a lock identification code from a key; comparing the read lock identification code to a stored code; reading a sequence number from the key; comparing the read sequence number with a stored sequence number; and actuating a locking member between locked and unlocked positions in the event that the read lock identification code is the same as the stored lock identification code and the read sequence number is equal to or greater than the stored sequence number.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a lock control system comprising: a lock allocation module operable to enable selection of a lock; a lock data module operable to store a unique lock identification code for each lock and a sequence number associated with each lock; a counter operable to increment the sequence number of a selected lock; and a writing unit operable to write the lock identification code and the incremented sequence number to a key.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a lock comprising: a key reader operable to read a lock identification code and a sequence number from a key; a processing unit operable to determine whether the lock identification code matches a stored lock identification code and whether the sequence number is equal to or exceeds a stored sequence number and output a signal in response thereto; and an actuator operable to actuate a locking member between locked and unlocked positions in response to the signal output by the processing unit.

The above therefore provides for ready and secure allocation and reallocation of keys for locks. Where these locks are fitted to lockers, this provides for ready and secure allocation and reallocation of lockers. The simplified scheme for use of a lock identification number and a sequence number in combination also reduces the complexity involved in reprogramming locks directly.

When a sequence number for a lock is incremented, the incremented sequence number may be stored in place of the previous sequence number. In this manner a new key with a correct sequence number can be written on request.

The lock may be operable to reset the stored sequence number to the read sequence number each time it is operated. In this manner the presentation of a key with an incremented sequence number automatically renders previous keys for the lock invalid.

The method may include the step of maintaining a record of allocated and unallocated locks. Such a record may be maintained in the lock data module. The method may include automatically selecting an unallocated lock when allocation of a lock is required. Such a selection may be undertaken by the lock allocation module. A lock may be deemed unallocated after a predetermined time period. This can enable locks to be reallocated in response to shift changes or the like.

The lock control system may comprise a single lock control terminal. In such embodiments, the lock control terminal may comprise all the features of the lock control system. In other embodiments, the system may comprise one or more lock control terminals and a master unit. In such embodiments, each lock control terminal may comprise a writing unit and a communication unit operable to exchange information with the master unit via a suitable communication link. The master unit may comprise the lock allocation module, the lock data module and the counter. This allows the locker allocation method to be managed by the master unit and the locker allocation data to be stored by the master unit.

The master unit may be implemented on a suitable server. The server may be remote from the terminals. This allows the master unit to be implemented online.

The communication link can be provided by any suitable wired or wireless data connection or combination of suitable data connections. The communication link may comprise a secure API (application programming interface).

In some such embodiments, each lock control terminal may comprise a local lock data module, lock allocation module and counter. This can allow continued local operation even if connection to the master unit is interrupted.

In some embodiments, the lock control system may comprise a user interface.

In embodiments comprising a master unit and one or more terminals, the master unit and each terminal may each have a user interface. The user interface may comprise a display unit and user actuable input means. The user actuable input means may comprise one or more dedicated buttons, switches, pointing devices, data readers or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the user actuable input means may comprise a touch sensitive screen for the display unit. In such embodiments, the display unit may be operable to display details of locks available for allocation and the lock allocation module may be operable to allocate locks in response to user input received via the user actuable input means.

In some embodiments, the method may comprise receiving user identity data before allocating a lock. The user identity data may be received via user the actuable input means. In preferred embodiments, the user identity data may be received from a data reader. The data reader may be operable to automatically read user identity data in a predetermined format from a user identity device. The data reader may be operable to read data by any suitable technique. In particular suitable data readers include but not limited to those operable to read data via suitable Radio Frequency signal formats such as Near Field Communication (NFC) or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID), infrared (IR), visible or ultraviolet (UV) signals, magnetic encoding or via a direct electrical connection. In one preferred example the data reader may comprise a barcode scanner operable to read a barcode provided on an identity card.

The method may include storing user identity data associated with an allocated lock. Such user identity data may be stored in the lock data module. This allows a system administrator to verify the identity of a user who is allocated a particular lock in the event that the user losses or damages their key.

The method may include the step of providing a user with information about the allocated lock. This may include a number or code displayed on the lock (or a locker to which the lock is fitted) and/or the location of the lock (or the locker to which the lock is fitted). The data may be provided via the display screen. In some embodiments, the terminal may be provided with a printer. In such embodiments, the data may be provided by printing a ticket including said data.

The method may include the step of providing a master key. The master key may be operable to enable any lock to be operated. This can enable, for instance, management inspections of lockers to which the locks are fitted.

The master key may comprise a master code and a master sequence number.

The method may involve writing the master code and the master sequence number to the master key. This may be achieved by the writing unit. Before writing the master sequence number to the key, the method may involve looking up the master code; looking up the master sequence number; incrementing the master sequence number; and writing the incremented master sequence number to the key. When the master sequence number is incremented, the incremented sequence number may be stored in place of the previous master sequence number. In this manner a new master key with a correct master sequence number can be written on request.

The method may involve reading the master code and the master sequence number from the master key. This may be achieved by the key reader. After reading the master code and the master sequence number, the method may involve actuating a locking member only in the event that the read master code is the same as the stored master code and the read master sequence number is equal to or greater than the stored master sequence number. The lock may be operable to reset the stored master sequence number to the read master sequence number each time it is operated by the master key. In this manner the presentation of a master key with an incremented sequence number automatically renders previous master keys for the lock invalid.

The method may include the step of providing an administrator key. The administrator key may be operable to enable any lock to be operated for reallocation purposes. This can enable, for instance, administrators to manually reallocate lockers to which the locks are fitted as required.

The administrator key may comprise an administrator code and the master sequence number. The method may involve writing the administrator code and the master sequence number to the administrator key. This may be achieved by the writing unit. Before writing the administrator sequence number to the key, the method may involve looking up the administrator code; looking up the master sequence number and writing the master sequence number to the key. This ensures that the administrator key has the same sequence number as the master key. Accordingly, a master key and an administrator key are provided as matched pairs.

The method may involve reading the administrator code and the master sequence number from the administrator key. This may be achieved by the key reader. After reading the administrator code and the master sequence number, the method may involve actuating a locking member only in the event that the read administrator code is the same as the stored administrator code and the read master sequence number is equal to the stored master sequence number. The lock may be operable to increment the stored sequence number when operated in response to the administrator key. This therefore enables access to the lock and renders previous user keys for the lock invalid. In order to operate an administrator key must thus share the same master sequence number with the master key. Accordingly, prior administrator keys are rendered invalid once a new master key is used.

The lock identification code and sequence number may be encrypted before being written to the key. Similarly, in implementations including master and administrator keys, the master code, master sequence number and administrator code may be encrypted before being written to the master key or the administrator key. The encryption may be achieved by use of a writing encryption key. The writing encryption key may be stored by the lock control module.

The lock identification code and sequence number may be read from the key before being decrypted. Similarly, in implementations including master and administrator keys, the master code, master sequence number and administrator code may be decrypted after being read from the master key or the administrator key. The decryption may be achieved by use of a reading encryption key. The reading encryption key may be stored by the lock.

Preferably, the reading encryption key is different to the writing encryption key. This increases security.

The lock may comprise a lock data store. The lock data store may be operable to store the lock identification code and the sequence number. In implementations including master and administrator keys, the lock data store may additionally be operable to store the master code, master sequence number and administrator code.

The actuator may take any suitable form. In one preferred embodiment, the actuator comprises a solenoid. In alternative embodiments the actuator may comprise an electric motor or the like.

The key reader may be operable to read data from the key by any suitable technique. In particular suitable key readers include but not limited to those operable to read data via suitable Radio Frequency signal formats such as Near Field Communication (NFC) or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID), infrared (IR), visible or ultraviolet (UV) signals, magnetic encoding or via a direct electrical connection. In one preferred example the key reader may be operable to read data via a short range RF connection to the key.

The key may comprise a package and a data store and communication means for enabling the writing of information to the data store or the reading of information from the data store. The data store may be operable to store the lock identity code and the sequence number. Where the key is a master key or administrator key, the data store may be operable to store the master code, master sequence number and administrator code as required.

The communication means may be operable to communicate data by any suitable technique. In particular suitable communication means include but not limited to those operable to read data via suitable Radio Frequency signal formats such as Near Field Communication (NFC) or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID), infrared (IR), visible or ultraviolet (UV) signals, magnetic encoding or via a direct electrical connection. In one preferred example the communication means may comprise an RF antenna operable to transmit and/or receive short range RF signals.

The package may take any suitable form. For instance, the package may take the form of a card, in particular a plastic card. In another example, the package may take the form of a fob or the like, in particular a plastic fob.

In a preferred embodiment, the package may comprise a card holder. The card holder may be adapted to retain standard sized, identity cards, key cards or the like. This can ensure a user retains easy access to the key of the present invention and any other identity or key cards required for other systems.

In particular, the card holder may comprise a slot or pocket for receiving said cards and a body portion for housing the communication means. The slot may be a complete slot or may be a partially open slot. The card holder may be formed from plastic or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the card holder may be formed from transparent plastic.

The card holder may comprise an attachment fixture. The attachment fixture may comprise one or more loops or the like. This can enable the card holder to be attached to a lanyard, a belt, a clip or the like. A user can thus conveniently wear the card holder.

The lock may be provided on a locker. The locker may have a substantially rectangular cuboidal form, with one face comprising a door. The door may be connected to the locker by way of one or more hinges. The lock may be mounted on the door or on a face adjacent to the door. The locking member may be operable to move between a lock position where movement of the door relative to the other faces is prevented and an unlock position where the door may be moved relative to the other faces. The locker may be provided in a bank of lockers, in particular in a bank of like lockers.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a key comprising: a rewritable data store, the rewriteable data store operable to store a unique locker identification code and a sequence number.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a locker incorporating a lock according to the fourth aspect of the present invention.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a locker bank comprising a plurality of lockers according to the sixth aspect of the present invention connected together.

The key, locker and locker bank or the fifth, sixth and seventh aspects of the present invention may incorporate any or all of the features of the first four aspects of the invention as desired or as appropriate.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating locker allocation according to the present invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram of a key according to the present invention;

Figure 3 is an illustration of a preferred embodiment of a key according to the present invention;

Figure 4a is a schematic block diagram of an implementation of a lock allocation system according to the present invention incorporating multiple terminals;

Figure 4b is a schematic block diagram of an implementation of a lock allocation system according to the present invention incorporating multiple terminals;

Figure 4c illustrates a preferred embodiment of a lock allocation terminal according to the present invention; and

Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram of a lock according to the present invention.

Turning now to figure 1, a user 1 is provided with a key 10. The user 1 seeks to be allocated one of a plurality of lockers 2 for their personal use. Each locker 2 is fitted with an electronic lock 3. In order to be allocated a locker 2, the user 1 interacts with terminal 4. The terminal 4 is operable to identify unallocated lockers 2 and allocate one such locker 2 to the user 1. The allocated locker 2 has a lock 3 with a unique lock identification code and an associated sequence number. In order that the user 1 can use the locker 2, the terminal 4 is operable to write the lock identity code to the key 10. Additionally, the terminal 4 is operable to increment the sequence number and write the incremented sequence number to the key 10. Subsequently, the user 1 can present the key 10 to the lock 3 of the allocated locker 2. The lock 3 is operable to read the lock identity code and the sequence number. If the lock identity code matches a stored lock identity code and the sequence number is equal to or greater than a stored sequence number, the lock 3 will open allowing the user to access the locker. Additionally, the latest accepted sequence number is stored by the lock 3.

Once the locker 2 is closed, the lock 3 can automatically lock the locker again.

The user can subsequently open the locker again using the same key 10. The user 1 retains access to the locker 2 until it is reallocated and a key 10 having a higher sequence number is used to operate the lock 3.

Turning now to figure 2 the key 10 comprises a data store 11 and a communication means 12 such as an RF antenna. The communication means 12 is operable to receive the lock identity code and the sequence number from the terminal 4 for writing to the data store 11. The communication means 12 is also operable to transmit the lock identity code and the sequence number to the lock 3. Typically, the communication means 12 would operate from scavenged power.

The key 10 is typically provided within a package. The package provided protection for the data store 11 and communication means 12. The package may be in a standard form such as a card or a fob.

Turning now to figure 3, a preferred embodiment of a package 13 for a key 10 is illustrated. The package comprises a body portion 14, a card holding pocket 15 and an attachment fixture 16. The body portion 14 houses the data store 11 and communication means 12. Optionally, the body portion 14 may comprise a sealed pocket for receiving a pre-packaged data store 11 and communication means 12. The card holding pocket 15 is formed from a substantially clear plastic and is of a size to receive and retain one or more cards. Typically, such cards may comprise identity cards and/or keycards for other systems or locks. The attachment fixture 16 is provided with one or more holes 17 to allow ready attachment to a lanyard or the like.

Turning now to figure 4a, a first embodiment of a terminal 4 is illustrated. The terminal comprises a lock allocation module 41; a lock data module 42; a counter 43; and a writing unit 44. Typically, to facilitate user interaction with the terminal 4, the terminal may additionally be provided with a user interface comprising a display unit 45 and user actuable input means 46. The user actuable input means 46 are typically a touch sensitive screen over the display 45 but may also incorporate any other inputs as necessary.

The lock allocation module 41 is operable to enable selection of a lock 3 from those available for allocation. This selection may be automatic or may be user controlled via the interface.

The lock data module 42 is operable to store a unique lock identification code for each lock 3 and a sequence number associated with each lock 3. The lock data module 42 is also operable to maintain a record of allocated and unallocated locks 3.

The counter 43 is operable to increment the sequence number of a selected lock upon selection. The incremented sequence number is then stored in the lock data module 42.

The writing unit 44 is operable to write the lock identification code and the incremented sequence number to a key 10. Accordingly, the writing unit 44 is operable to communicate with the communication means 12 of the key 10. Typically, the writing unit 44 thus comprises an RF antenna and is operable to transmit RF signals including the lock identification code and sequence number.

Turning now to figure 4b, this illustrates a system 40 comprising a master unit 49 and a plurality of terminals 4. The master unit 49 comprises the lock allocation module 41, lock data module 42 and counter 43. A plurality of terminals 4 are provided in communication with the master unit 49. Each terminal 4 comprises a writing unit 44. To facilitate user interaction, each terminal 44 typically also comprises a display 45 and user actuable inputs 46.

In such embodiments, the master unit 49 is typically provided on a remote server and is operable to communicate with each terminal 4 via a secure API. This allows lock allocation and related data storage to be implemented and managed online and remotely from the terminals 4. In this manner, the master unit 49 can control lock allocation for multiple terminals 4. In some instances, several terminals 4 may be provided for a single bank of lockers 2. This allows multiple users 1 to be allocated lockers 2 in parallel. This speeds up locker 2 allocation at busy periods. In some instances, a single master unit 49 may control multiple terminals 4 at multiple different locations. In order to facilitate administrator control, the master unit 49 can be provided with a user interface or may be in communication with a suitable control terminal (not shown) such as a personal computer or the like.

Turning to figure 4c, a further optional embodiment of a terminal 4 is shown.

In this instance, the terminal 4 which may be an integrated terminal according to figure 4a or a controlled terminal as in figure 4b is provided with a display 45 and writing unit 44 and is additionally provided with a data reader 47 and a printer 48.

The data reader 47 allows user identity data to be read by the lock allocation module 41. In a typical embodiment, the data reader 47 may be a barcode reader operable to read a barcode from a user identity card. Nevertheless, the skilled man will appreciate that alternative forms of data reader could be used where appropriate.

The data reader 47 can help verify that a user 1 is eligible for locker allocation. It can also be used to associate user identity details with an allocated locker 2. The user identity details and their association with a particular locker 2 can then be stored in the lock data module 42. This allows an administrator to maintain a record of allocation of lockers to users. In the event that a user loses or damages their key 10, this may enable the administrator to provide access to a locker 2 to the associated user once their identity is suitably verified.

The printer 48 is operable to print a ticket providing the user 1 with an indication as to the allocated locker 2. Typically, this might be a locker number. Where appropriate, the ticket may also contain directions to the allocated locker 2 and/or instructions on use of the locker 2.

Turning now to figure 5, a lock 3 according to the present invention is illustrated. The lock 3 comprises a key reader 31; a processing unit 32; a lock data store 33 and an actuator 34.

The key reader 31 is operable to read the lock identification code and sequence number from the key 10. Accordingly, the key reader 31 is operable to communicate with the communication means 12 of the key 10. Typically, the key reader 31 thus comprises an RF antenna and is operable to receive RF signals including the lock identification code and sequence number.

The lock data store 33 is operable to store the lock identification code for the lock 3 and the current sequence number. The processing unit 32 is operable to determine whether the lock identification code matches the stored lock identification code and whether the sequence number is equal to or exceeds the stored sequence number. Having carried out the comparison, the processing unit 32 is operable to output a signal indicative of the outcome of the comparison to the actuator 34.

The processing unit 32 is operable to cause the lock data store 33 to reset the stored sequence number to the read sequence number each time it is operated. In this manner the presentation of a key with an incremented sequence number automatically renders previous keys for the lock invalid.

In response to a signal indicative that the lock identification code matches the stored lock identification code and the sequence number is equal to or exceeds the stored sequence number, the actuator 34 is operable to actuate a locking member (not shown) to an unlocked position. Moving the locking member to an unlocked position allows a locker 2 to be opened.

The lock 3 may also comprise a sensor 35 operable to determine when the locker 2 is shut. In response to the sensor 35 output, the processing unit 32 can determine whether or not the locker 2 is shut. If the locker 2 is determined to be shut, the processing unit can output a signal to the actuator 34 to actuate the locking member to a locked position, thus locking the locker 2. In some embodiments, the locking member may be biased towards the locked position, by a spring or the like. In such cases, the actuator 34 can operate against the bias for a pre-set time period. This therefore allows the door to be opened during the pre-set time period only. In such cases, the locking member may have an asymmetric profile. This can allow the door to be shut after the pre-set time period, with the asymmetric profile acting against the bias to allow the locking member to move toward the unlocked position when shutting the door and revert to the locked position once the door is shut.

In order to enable access to lockers 2, for instance for spot inspections, it is possible to write a key 10 as a master key. The master key will store in the data store 11a master code and a master sequence number. The master code for a particular locker block (or series of blocks) is stored in the lock data module 42 along with the current master sequence number. Similarly, the master code and master sequence number is stored in the data store 33 of each lock 3 within the block (or series of blocks).

Upon writing a master code to a key 10, the master sequence number is incremented and written to the key 10 alongside the master code. Upon presentation of a key with a master code to a lock 3, the reader 31 reads the master code and the master sequence number. The processing unit 32 is operable to determine whether the master code matches the stored master code and whether the master sequence number is equal to or exceeds the stored master sequence number. If so, the processing unit can output a signal to the actuator 44 so as to cause the actuator to actuate the locking member to the unlocked position. Alongside this operation, the processing unit can cause the lock data store 33 to reset the stored master sequence number to the read master sequence number. This therefore renders previous master keys invalid.

In order to enable manual reallocation of lockers 2 by an administrator it is possible to write a key 10 as an administrator key. The administrator key will store in the data store 11 an administrator code and the master sequence number. As such an administrator key can only be issued as a part of a pair with a master key. The administrator code for a particular locker block (or series of blocks) is stored in the lock data module 42 along with the current master sequence number. Similarly, the administrator code and master sequence number is stored in the data store 33 of each lock 3 within the block (or series of blocks).

Upon writing an administrator code to a key 10, the master sequence number is incremented and written to the key 10 alongside the master code. Upon presentation of a key with an administrator code to a lock 3, the reader 31 reads the administrator code and the master sequence number. The processing unit 32 is operable to determine whether the administrator code matches the stored administrator code and whether the master sequence number is equal to the stored master sequence number. If so, the processing unit can output a signal to the actuator 44 so as to cause the actuator to actuate the locking member to the unlocked position. Alongside this operation, the processing unit can cause the lock data store 33 to increment the stored sequence number. This therefore enables access to the locker 2 and renders previous keys invalid.

The above embodiments are described by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method of programming a key for a lock, the method comprising the steps of: looking up a unique lock identification code for the selected lock; looking up a sequence number for the selected lock; incrementing the sequence number; and writing the lock identification code and the incremented sequence number to the key.

2. A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein when a sequence number for a lock is incremented, the incremented sequence number may be stored in place of the previous sequence number.

3. A method as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the method includes the step of maintaining a record of allocated and unallocated locks.

4. A method as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the method comprises receiving user identity data before allocating a lock.

5. A method as claimed in claim 4 wherein the method includes storing user identity data associated with an allocated lock.

6. A method as claimed in claim 4 or claim 5 wherein the method includes the step of providing a user with information about the allocated lock.

7. A method as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the method includes providing a master key by writing a master code and a master sequence number to the master key.

8. A method as claimed in claim 7 wherein the method involves looking up the master code; looking up the master sequence number; incrementing the master sequence number; and writing the incremented master sequence number to the key.

9. A method as claimed in claim 8 wherein the incremented sequence number is stored in place of the previous master sequence number.

10. A method as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9 wherein the method includes providing an administrator key by writing an administrator code and the master sequence number to the administrator key.

11. A method as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the lock identification code and sequence number are encrypted before being written to the key.

12. A method of operating a lock, the method comprising the steps of reading a lock identification code from a key; comparing the read lock identification code to a stored code; reading a sequence number from the key; comparing the read sequence number with a stored sequence number; and actuating a locking member between locked and unlocked positions in the event that the read lock identification code is the same as the stored lock identification code and the read sequence number is equal to or greater than the stored sequence number.

13. A method as claimed in claim 12 wherein the stored sequence number is rest to the read sequence number each time the lock is operated.

14. A method as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13 wherein a master key is provided and the method involves reading a master code and a master sequence number from the master key.

15. A method as claimed in claim 14 wherein the method involves actuating a locking member only in the event that the read master code is the same as the stored master code and the read master sequence number is equal to or greater than the stored master sequence number.

16. A method as claimed in claim 15 wherein the stored master sequence number is reset to the read master sequence number each time it is operated by the master key.

17. A method as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein an administrator key is provided and the method involves reading the administrator code and the master sequence number from the administrator key.

18. A method as claimed in claim 17 wherein the method involves actuating the locking member only in the event that the read administrator code is the same as the stored administrator code and the read master sequence number is equal to the stored master sequence number.

19. A method as claimed in claim 18 wherein the stored sequence number is incremented when operated in response to the administrator key.

20. A method as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 19 wherein the lock identification code and sequence number are read from the key before being decrypted.

21. A lock control system comprising: a lock allocation module operable to enable selection of a lock; a lock data module operable to store a unique lock identification code for each lock and a sequence number associated with each lock; a counter operable to increment the sequence number of a selected lock; and a writing unit operable to write the lock identification code and the incremented sequence number to a key.

22. A lock control system as claimed in claim 21 wherein the lock data module maintains a record of allocated and unallocated locks.

23. A lock control system as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22 wherein the lock control system comprises a single lock control terminal.

24. A lock control system as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22 wherein the lock control system comprises one or more lock control terminals and a master unit.

25. A lock control system as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 24 wherein the lock control system comprises a user interface.

26. A lock control system as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 25 wherein the user identity data is received from a data reader.

27. A lock control system as claimed in claim 26 wherein the lock data module is operable to store user identity data associated with an allocated lock.

28. A lock control system as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 27 wherein the terminal is provided with a printer operable to print a ticket including information about the allocated lock.

29. A lock control system as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 28 wherein the writing unit is operable to provide a master key by writing a master code and a master sequence number to the master key.

30. A lock control system as claimed in claim 29 wherein before writing the master sequence number to the key, the counter is operable to increment the master sequence number and the writing unit is operable to write the incremented master sequence number to the key.

31. A lock control system as claimed in claim 30 wherein the lock data module is operable to store the incremented sequence number in place of the previous master sequence number.

32. A lock control system as claimed in any one of claims 29 to 31 wherein the writing unit is operable to provide an administrator key by writing an administrator code and the master sequence number to the administrator key

33. A lock control system as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 32 wherein the writing unit is operable to encrypt the lock identification code and sequence number before being written to the key.

34. A lock comprising: a key reader operable to read a lock identification code and a sequence number from a key; a processing unit operable to determine whether the lock identification code matches a stored lock identification code and whether the sequence number is equal to or exceeds a stored sequence number and output a signal in response thereto; and an actuator operable to actuate a locking member between locked and unlocked positions in response to the signal output by the processing unit.

35. A lock as claimed in claim 34 wherein the lock is operable to reset the stored sequence number to the read sequence number each time it is operated.

36. A lock as claimed in claim 34 or claim 35 wherein a master key is provided and the key reader is operable to read a master code and a master sequence number from the master key.

37. A lock as claimed in claim 36 wherein the actuator is operable to actuate the locking member if the processing unit determines that the read master code is the same as the stored master code and the read master sequence number is equal to or greater than the stored master sequence number.

38. A lock as claimed in claim 37 wherein the lock is operable to reset the stored master sequence number to the read master sequence number each time it is operated by the master key.

39. A lock as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 38 wherein an administrator key is provided and the key reader is operable to read an administrator code and the master sequence number from the administrator key

40. A lock as claimed in claim 39 wherein he actuator is operable to actuate the locking member if the processing unit determines that the read administrator code is the same as the stored administrator code and the read master sequence number is equal to the stored master sequence number.

41. A lock as claimed in claim 40 wherein the lock is operable to increment the stored sequence number when operated in response to the administrator key.

42. A lock as claimed in any one of claims 34 to 41 wherein the key reader is operable to decrypt the lock identification code and sequence number after reading from the key.

43. A lock as claimed in any one of claims 34 to 42 wherein the lock is provided on a locker.

44. A key comprising: a package enclosing a rewritable data store, operable to store a unique lock identification code and a sequence number; and a communication means for enabling the writing of information to the data store or the reading of information from the data store.

45. A key as claimed in claim 44 operable to implement the method of an one of claims 1 to 20 or to be used with the lock control system of claims 21 to 33 or the lock of claims 34 to 43.

46. A key as claimed in claim 44 or claim 45 wherein the package comprises a card holder in the form of a slot or pocket for receiving a cards and a body portion for housing the data store and communication means.

47. A key as claimed in claim 46 wherein the package additionally comprises an attachment fixture.

48. A locker incorporating a lock according to any one of claims 34 to 43.

49. A locker bank comprising a plurality of lockers according to claim 48.